Affordable Group Health Insurance for South Florida Small Businesses

From The Blog

Why Health Insurance Matters for Small Employers

Small businesses are the heart of Palm Beach County’s economy. Whether you’re a retail shop in Delray Beach or a tech startup in West Palm, your employees rely on you not just for a paycheck, but also for peace of mind. Offering group health insurance helps you compete with larger companies, retain talent, and show your team you care.

But let’s be honest, health insurance is complex, expensive, and full of jargon. That’s why small business owners across South Florida need simple, cost-effective solutions that still deliver real value.

In this guide, we’ll explore how to build a smart group health plan, meet compliance requirements, and keep premiums under control while offering meaningful benefits to your team.

Benefits of Offering Health Insurance as a Small Business

  • Attract and retain talent in a competitive market

  • Boost employee morale and productivity

  • Reduce turnover and hiring costs

  • Improve tax strategy through deductions and credits

  • Comply with federal and state mandates when applicable

Cost-Effective Group Plan Options for Small Employers

 

Plan Type

Best For

Key Features

Level-Funded Plans

Businesses with 5-50 employees

Combines stability of premiums with possible refund on unused claims

QSEHRA (Qualified Small Employer HRA)

Under 50 employees

Reimburses employees tax-free for their own health plans

SHOP Marketplace Plans

Businesses wanting simplicity

ACA-compliant and available via healthcare.gov

Association Health Plans

Industry or regional groups

Group plans offered through trade organizations

Traditional Fully Insured Plans

Those wanting simplicity

Fixed monthly premiums and full carrier management

 

ACA Compliance and South Florida Considerations

  • Employers with under 50 full-time employees are not required by the ACA to provide insurance but may still be eligible for tax credits.

  • In Florida, employers can claim premium deductions and may also qualify for federal small business tax credits.

  • Palm Beach County businesses often see higher premiums due to regional healthcare costs, so shopping the market regularly is key.

Confused About Group Plan Choices?

Our advisors help small business owners across South Florida find simple, affordable options.
📞 Call (561) 206-4733 or explore our Group Benefits Solutions now.


Ways to Make Health Benefits More Affordable

  1. Offer High Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs) with Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)

  2. Split Premium Costs with employees to reduce your share

  3. Use a QSEHRA to offer flexibility without traditional group plans

  4. Focus on Preventative Care and wellness incentives to reduce long-term claims

  5. Work with an advisor who can shop multiple carriers and customize solutions

Tax Perks of Offering Employee Health Coverage

  • Deduct premiums as a business expense

  • Claim tax credits of up to 50% of your contribution if you qualify under ACA guidelines

  • Use HSAs and HRAs to give employees tax-free healthcare dollars


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Do I have to offer health insurance with under 50 employees?

No, but doing so gives you a competitive advantage and possible tax savings.

  • What is a level-funded plan?

It’s a hybrid option that offers predictable premiums with the possibility of money back if claims are low.

  • Can I give employees money to buy their own plan?

Yes, a QSEHRA lets you reimburse employees tax-free for individual coverage.

  • Is there a penalty for not offering health insurance?

Not for businesses under 50 full-time employees, but it may affect hiring.

  • What’s the most budget-friendly group health option?

HDHPs combined with HSAs or QSEHRAs are often the most cost-effective.

  • How do I know what plan is right for me?

Talk with an insurance advisor who can assess your team size, budget, and goals.

Better Benefits, Smarter Strategy

Health insurance doesn’t have to be a burden. For small business owners in Palm Beach County and the wider South Florida market, offering a strong, affordable group health plan is entirely within reach.

With the right guidance and plan structure, you can support your team, build loyalty, and stay financially strong, while offering benefits that truly make a difference.

Need help building a cost-effective group health plan for your team?
Call (561) 206-4733 or email service@ramriskgroup.com to speak with a local advisor.
Or explore our full range of Small Business Group Health Solutions today.